As a criminal defense lawyer, it's my job to ensure that my clients receive fair and just treatment under the law. Unfortunately, a recent study on monetary sanctions and juvenile recidivism in Florida suggests that the criminal justice system may be failing our youth. According to a report of the study, which analyzed the impact of fees and restitution [...]
A Missouri judge recently overturned the conviction of Lamar Johnson, a man who has served nearly 28 years of a life sentence for a murder he always maintained he did not commit. St. Louis Circuit Attorney Kim Gardner filed a motion in August seeking Johnson’s release after an investigation her office conducted with help from the Innocence Project convinced [...]
On Thursday, President Joe Biden issued an executive order highlighting the administration's efforts to correct the failed approach to federal marijuana policy. The order, which is focused on promoting equity within federal agencies and the White House, showcases the president's actions on marijuana. Biden previously granted a mass pardon for people with non-violent federal cannabis possession convictions and directed [...]
As a criminal defense attorney, I am excited to share the launch of the National Courtwatch Network and its website, courtwatch.org, which aims to bring transparency and accountability to courtrooms across the United States. According to a recent article, the initiative seeks to inspire a transparency movement that scrutinizes the “assembly line of injustice” happening in America’s courtrooms. The [...]
You face serious legal consequences if you are accused of domestic violence in Florida. Florida allows domestic violence charges to be filed against anyone who has committed an act of violence or abuse against someone with whom they are in a domestic relationship. These include marriages, dating relationships, family relationships, or household members. The purpose of this blog post [...]
Confirmation bias is a natural human tendency that can affect how we process information and make decisions. We all have a cognitive bias toward seeking patterns and organizing information in a way that makes sense to us. When we encounter new information that fits our existing beliefs or expectations, we tend to process it more easily and quickly than [...]
Facing criminal charges or being under criminal investigation can be a daunting and overwhelming experience. It can leave you feeling stressed, anxious, and uncertain about your future. However, it is helpful to remember that you are not alone and that there are ways to cope with the emotional challenges of facing criminal charges. Maintain Your Connections When facing criminal [...]
The use of video evidence in criminal cases has skyrocketed in recent years, thanks to the widespread availability of surveillance cameras, smartphones, and bodyworn cameras. This trend has profoundly impacted criminal defense practice, and it's worth exploring in detail. Difficult to Challenge in Some Cases Sometimes, the ubiquity of video evidence has made it much harder for criminal defense [...]
As a "first-time offender," being taken into custody and booked into jail in Miami can be a traumatic and confusing experience. It is usually a highly emotional and stressful experience. The sudden loss of freedom and being placed in an unfamiliar and potentially hostile environment can trigger feelings of fear, anxiety, and hopelessness. Being Booked Upon arrest, you may or [...]
When facing criminal charges, the last thing you want is for someone else's words to be used against you in court. Unfortunately, this is precisely what can happen when hearsay evidence is introduced. So, what exactly is hearsay, and why should you care? What is Hearsay? In legal terms, hearsay is any out-of-court statement that is offered to prove the [...]
